So it was only natural that when Usher was writing out the invitations for his landmark 35th birthday, he included the Baby singer.

And by the looks of it there was a whole lot of love in Bootsy Bellows in West Hollywood on Monday night - as Usher shared a few Instagram snaps of his crew.

The 19-year-old pop sensation may have changed quite a bit in the five years since he first met Usher - Justin was more neatly pressed trousers than baggy jeans.

It was all about the head gear

Over the years Usher has leapt to his pal's defence for a few of his wild antics - check out his best here - and it seems the pair are still closer than ever.

Usher and Justin struck a deal 2008 when an ex music executive brought the youngster to Usher’s home town of Atlanta, Georgia.

Speaking of the first meeting Usher gushes: "The day I met Justin was special. I saw that he had a raw ­talent — and he was cute, girls would like him. I thought OK, if this is properly nourished it could become huge. But I didn’t know how huge.

"At that time, there was a pop phenomenon that was all very Disney and Nickelodeon. But here was a guy who was the antithesis to all that. He had introduced himself to the world online. I knew if we could guide him then we’d have a product that is the Justin you see."